THE Gaelic Players Association (GPA) has told its members that there remains a possibly of no Championship football being played in 2020.
The GAA is today holding a special congress, via conference call, when 67 delegates – including Donegal’s central council delegate Sean Dunnion – are expected to give their backing to a rule change that would enable the Management Committee make decisions pertaining to the Championships.
This would include altering the format and/or schedule of the senior football and hurling championships.
Earlier this week, the GAA confirmed the postponing of the championships, saying that they do not expect play to resume until July ‘at the earliest’.
Via video link, the GPA held discussions with representatives from each county.
While no decisions were taken, a number of scenarios were discussed by members.
This includes the potential playing of games behind closed doors. Were restrictions to be eased and enable gatherings of less than 100, some believe that it would be possible to play games behind closed doors.
In broad notes from the call, seen by Donegal Daily/Donegal Sport Hub, it seems clear that the GPA would insult on consultation with its members before backing would be given to playing games behind closed doors.
The GPA will also ‘insist’ on a return-to-play period of four weeks.
“The GPA just wants a timeline for members,” a source said. “There is a possibility that we won’t be playing until September. Players are doing individual work now, but it just needs to be tailored with a timeline.
“There is also, of course, a possibility that there will be no games in 2020.”
The Ulster Council this week took the decision to shelve a number of competitions, including the 2020 Buncrana Cup, while the 2020 Ulster MFC has been changed.
The draw has been brought into line with the senior version with Luke Barrett’s Donegal now set to face Tyrone. Again, though, these decision are, for now, without dates.
